Category: Things To Do

A sprawling city with a rich cultural heritage and harrowing history, Berlin has reinvented itself in the new millennium as one of Europe’s must-see destinations and the cosmopolitan, fashion-forward capital is thoroughly captivating. Whether you want to check off the top sights, enjoy the city’s legendary nightlife or seek out some quirky off-the-beaten-track sights – add to your itinerary these 50 unforgettable experiences to have in Berlin.

Spread along the banks of the River Spree and dotted with lakes and canal ways, it’s easy to forget that the German capital is landlocked and there are plenty of fun ways to get on the water in Berlin. Here are some ideas.

Long renowned as one of Europe’s party capitals, Berlin has something for everyone when it comes to nightlife and with everything from traditional beer gardens and dive bars, to swanky wine bars and hip speakeasies, Berlin’s bars are as varied as the city itself. If you’re looking for something a little different though, seek out Berlin’s most unique bars and sip poolside cocktails in the middle of the city, order a whisky in a Wild West Saloon or discover one of the city’s growing population of hidden bars. Here are some of the best.

When you think of traveling in Berlin, what comes to mind? Perhaps visiting Checkpoint Charlie to see pieces of the old wall, or visiting the Parliament building and Brandenburg Gate. Museum Island is also a favorite – if you like being surrounded by a bunch of other tourists. As a short-term resident of Berlin, I had already seen those things and yearned for something different. That’s why the Berlin Off the Beaten Path Walking Tour really appealed to me. Not only was it a small group tour, which afforded everyone the opportunity to ask questions, but it also made it easier to get to know each other and to have small talk while walking from site to site.

Long regarded as one of Europe’s cultural hotspots and home to an impressive three opera houses and seven symphony orchestras, there’s always something going off in Berlin and the city is as famous for its prestigious opera companies as it is for its boundary-pushing contemporary arts. Berlin’s unique theater scene is the perfect example of this juxtaposition and while the city’s East End Theater District might not be a match for New York’s Broadway or London’s West End, it’s renowned for its huge variety of international and German theatre, alternative and independent theater companies, and an ever-changing roster that includes opera, classical theater, musicals, children’s plays, puppet shows, cabarets and performance art.

As renowned for the harrowing events of World War II as for its ultra-modern reinvention as an arts and culture hub, Berlin is one of Europe’s most celebrated capital cities, drawing millions of tourists each year. A city of vibrant contrasts, there’s more to Berlin than meets the eye. To get you started on your journey of discovery, here are nine things you probably didn’t know about Berlin.